Interactive Simulations
Experiment with Coulomb's Law and see how changing charges and distances affects the electric force.
Coulomb's Law
Where:
- F = force between charges (N)
- k = Coulomb constant (9×10⁹ N·m²/C²)
- q₁, q₂ = charges (C)
- r = distance between charges (m)
How to Use This Simulation
- Adjust the charges: Use the sliders to change the magnitude of each charge. Click the "Toggle Sign" button to switch between positive and negative charges.
- Change the distance: Use the distance slider to move the charges closer together or further apart.
- Observe the force: Watch how the force arrows change in length and direction based on your adjustments. The calculated force value is shown in newtons.
- Test the inverse square law: Try doubling the distance and observe how the force changes. According to Coulomb's Law, it should decrease to one-fourth of its original value.
- Compare attraction vs. repulsion: Make both charges the same sign to see repulsion, or opposite signs to see attraction.
Key Observations
Charge Relationship
When you double either charge, the force doubles. When you double both charges, the force quadruples. This demonstrates the direct proportionality to the product of charges.
Distance Relationship
When you double the distance, the force decreases to one-fourth of its original value. This demonstrates the inverse square relationship with distance.
Force Direction
Like charges (both positive or both negative) repel each other, while unlike charges (one positive, one negative) attract each other. The force always acts along the line joining the two charges.
Magnitude Comparison
The electrostatic force is extremely strong compared to gravitational force at the atomic scale. This is why electromagnetic forces dominate in atomic and molecular structures.